R. L. Polk & Co has recently handed Audi its newly introduced “Most Improved Loyalty to Make” award.

This award can be validated by the stats, with Audi recording a 4.9% increase in consumer loyalty during 2009, which the elated recipients announced during the 14th Annual Automotive Loyalty Awards in Detroit.

This is a huge boost for Audi’s marketing efforts, as they have invested heavily throughout 2009, establishing a consumer relationship that transpires beyond a single model or series.

The award honours automotive brands is based on which manufacturer has the greatest percentage point increase. The growth of Audi’s brand surprised all at the ceremony. However, with an astounding growth of 4.9%, either Audi’s expanding reach is being overlooked or happening very much under-the-radar.

Stephen Polk, chairman, president and CEO of R. L. Polk asserted Audi’s latest achievement by saying “This is not an easy task to accomplish, which speaks volumes about the momentum that Audi has acquired in recent years.” And who would argue? Over the last few years Audi have gone beyond attracting interest and using incentives to retain customers, and worked on building a unique bond with its current consumer base and cultivated an equally unique brand image to attract new customers.

Johan de Nysschen, President of Audi America was humbled by Polk’s recognition, stating after the ceremony: “The recognition by R. L. Polk validates the work of the Audi employees and dealers in creating this lasting bond.”

Audi have surpassed all other brands in the market with regards to increased loyalty and will be confident of achieved the same feat for 2010.